Bursaries

Know an aspiring apprentice plumber? Encourage them to apply and take the next step in their journey with the support of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers.

Apprentices are encouraged to apply using the online application form below but must have a reference from their lecturer or employer.

Professional bodies, industry organisations, training providers or employers are encouraged to support students who, in their opinion, meet the criteria and would therefore merit consideration as recipients of a bursary.

Applicants must provide proof of registration, including the enrolment number with the awarding body for Level 3 MES (Plumbing) or equivalent. However, if you possess a different qualification that you wish to be considered, please send details to the Clerk.

The deadline for submission is Friday 15th January 2027.
We welcome applications from all eligible apprentices.

Complete the form by clicking here

If you prefer to email your application please request a PDF form from the Clerk by emailing clerk@plumberscompany.org.uk
Alternatively, you may apply by post by the 8th January 2027.
The Clerk, WCoP, Painters Hall, London EC4V 2AD.

2027 Application Timetable.

• Applications open October 2026
• Closing date for postal or email applications – Friday 8th January 2027
• Closing date for online applications – Friday 15th January 2027
• Bursary winners notified – February 2027
• Bursary winners announced on World Plumbers Day – Tuesday 11th March 2027.

Important Information

– All applications will be considered by the Company’s Education and Technical Committee who may seek additional information
– Previously unsuccessful applicants may apply again
– Not all candidates will be successful and the decision of the Education and Technical Committee is final
– No correspondence will be entered into in respect of decisions made, and any such Bursaries given
– Successful applications may be invited to attend an event, such as a lunch in London, for which travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Bursary Winners 2026

We are delighted to reveal the 2026 Bursary Competition winners from the Worshipful Company of Plumbers proudly sponsored by Monument Tools and the Plumbers’ Charity.

After reviewing 197 applications , six outstanding plumbing apprentices were selected for their dedication to the trade and the meaningful impact a bursary will have on their future careers. Each winner was strongly supported by their colleges and employers , reflecting their commitment, talent and potential.

The winners were:

– Jack from South West Skills Campus
– Jessica from Vision West Nottinghamshire College
– Alice from Milburn Centre (West Suffolk) Eastern Education Group News Release
– Oliver from Cornwall College, St Austell Campus
– Jack from Carshalton College
– Callum from University Academy, Holbeach

This award helps equip future plumbers with the tools and confidence to succeed. Duncan Barnes is a plumbing co-ordinator working for Eastern Education Group and West Suffolk College who support around 300 plumbing students currently. Duncan said “Alice received a number of tools for building services and engineering to help her with her future career. A massive thank you to Monument Tools and the Worshipful Company of Plumbers.

There were 6 runners up who were highly commended by the judges. They will each receive personalised cutters:

– Maryna from City of Westminster College
– Dylan from Barking and Dagenham College
– Tommy from St Austell College
– Elliott from Wigan and Leigh College
– Conor from Ayrshire College
– Jack from Aldershot College

Alice King from Milburn Centre (West Suffolk)

Master of The Worshipful Company of Plumbers, Sandra Raine, said: “I was delighted to see Alice receive this bursary, proudly sponsored by Monument Tools and the Plumbers’ Charity.

“The Worshipful Company of Plumbers hopes these tools will support her as she continues to work independently, build her skills, and progress in her plumbing career.

“Alice’s achievement is a powerful testament to her hard work, passion and potential. As we have just celebrated International Women’s Day, her success is a timely reminder that plumbing is a rewarding and accessible career choice for women as well as men.

“We warmly congratulate Alice and wish her every success in the years ahead. We can’t wait to see what she does next.”

Bursary Sponsor – Monument Tools

The Bursaries are only possible because of the generous sponsorship provided by Monument Tools. Monument Tools is one of the leading British Tool Manufacturers of professional quality plumbing tools. Each year up to 6 students are awarded up to £1,000 worth of tools, which is invaluable to them in their early careers.

The Monument brand is over 90 years old, and the company, which is still owned and managed by the Collier family now in its 5th generation, continues to invest in the latest technology. The products manufactured range from small pipe cutters up to £1,000 manhole cover lifters.

Monument Tools is one of the largest specialist hand tools manufacturers in Europe, both designing and manufacturing tools for Plumbing, Roofing, and Drainage under the Monument brand, via Private Label and OEM.

Thanks to the generous support of Monument Tools and the Plumbers’ Charity, every winner will receive a professional tool kit worth £1,000, providing a significant boost as they continue their training and development.